During a bilateral meeting with United Nations Secretary General, Antonio Guterres, President Maithripala Sirisena reiterated his call to look at Sri Lanka with a fresh perspective

The President briefed the UN Chief about Sri Lanka’s progress in strengthening democracy, rule of law, media freedom and reconciliation.

The President said that during the last three and a half years, the country has made progress in many areas and his government would continue to work towards reconciliation. 

He urged the international community to look at Sri Lanka with a fresh perspective taking into consideration the progress made so far.

Sirisena's delegation comprised of ministers Tilak Marapana, Champika Ranawaka, Mano Ganeshan and Permanent Representative to UN, Dr Amrith Rohan Perera. 

The President invited the Secretary General to pay another visit to Sri Lanka and see with his own eyes what Sirisena termed the vast developments that has taken place in the country.

 Accepting the invitation, Mr Guterres said he would visit at the earliest possible.

Mr Guterres said he recognized the complex challenges faced by Sri Lanka and said the United Nations would continue to extend support to Sri Lanka’s efforts towards reconciliation. He praised Sri Lanka’s good work in peace building, human rights and UN peace keeping.